Where can she marry?

Q. My daughter would like to get married this year. It would be a small family affair for approx 50 people. There is one stumbling point however, which is the venue for the ceremony. Neither my daughter or her partner are religious so a church wedding is out. Her first marriage was at a registery office and the marriage was a complete disaster so she would not wish to repeat that scene. I know that marriages are held in hotels etc but can you give me an idea as to the boundaries a wedding registrar has to keep to as to where the wedding can be held. Can a registrar be hired and carry out the ceremony where ever you wish or is it only in certain buildings?

A. It is now possible to hold civil ceremonies in any premises in England & Wales which have been granted a licence by the local authority. In order to be granted such a licence, the buildings must be permanent and roofed, open to the public and unconnected with religion. Most hotels and some castles, stately homes and country homes are now approved so if you have a venue in mind, ask if they are approved to hold civil ceremonies. Once you have confirmed this and made a provisional booking, you should immediately contact the local Superintendent Registrar to ensure they can attend on your chosen date and time, you can then go ahead and confirm your booking with the venue.
If you would like a list of approved premises, your local registrar should be able to provide one. Alternatively, if you would like more detailed help and guidance in finding that special country wedding venue, please contact me as I would be more than happy to offer my services..
(Answered by Sam Booth)